Imagine a baseball player so dominant that he not only wins championships but also redefines what it means to be a two-way star. That's Shohei Ohtani, and his recent message to Dodgers fans after their thrilling World Series victory has everyone buzzing. But here's where it gets controversial: can anyone truly match his unparalleled blend of hitting and pitching prowess?
The city of Los Angeles erupted in celebration as the Dodgers paraded through the streets, capping off one of the most unforgettable World Series runs in recent history. The festivities culminated at Dodger Stadium, where fans roared with applause as players shared heartfelt speeches and reflected on their improbable championship—a title clinched in an epic 11-inning Game 7. Among the speakers, three-time MVP Shohei Ohtani stood out, delivering a message that resonated deeply with fans. Fresh off his second consecutive championship with the Dodgers, Ohtani addressed the crowd in English, saying, “Hello, I’m so proud of this team, and you guys are the greatest fans in the world. I’m ready to get another ring next year.” Later, he shared a simple yet powerful message on Instagram: “Thank you LA.”
And this is the part most people miss: Ohtani’s impact extends far beyond his words. His 2025 campaign was nothing short of extraordinary, positioning him for a third straight MVP award (and fourth overall). Batting .282, he led the National League in slugging percentage (.622) and OPS (1.014), while smashing a career-best 55 home runs—the third-most in MLB that season. He also scored an MLB-leading 146 runs. But what truly sets him apart is his pitching—a skill no other MVP candidate can claim.
After taking the 2024 season off from pitching to recover from a Tommy John revision, Ohtani made a triumphant return to the mound in June 2025. Over 14 starts, he threw 47 innings with a stellar 2.87 ERA, striking out 62 batters while walking just nine. Though he only pitched six innings once during the regular season, he dominated in the postseason, delivering three consecutive six-inning starts—including a jaw-dropping NLCS performance where he struck out 10 batters and slugged three home runs as a hitter in the same game.
Here’s the bold question: Is Ohtani not just the best player in baseball, but the most transformative athlete in sports today? His ability to excel at both hitting and pitching challenges traditional roles and redefines what’s possible. As Dodgers fans dream of another championship, one thing is clear: with Ohtani on their side, anything feels achievable. What do you think? Is Ohtani the greatest athlete of our time, or is there someone else who deserves that title? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
